My marriage… With Pastor Owolabi Ademola

Could you briefly tell us about yourself and your background?

I am Pastor Owolabi Ademola. I was born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, specifically Sodeke, to the late Chief Abraham Owolabi and Mrs Celinah Owolabi. I had my primary and secondary education in Ogun State. Thereafter, I attended the West African Portland Cement Training School, now Lafarge Cement, where I earned a Certificate in Multi-Skilled Craftsmanship.

I also obtained an Ordinary National Diploma in Business Administration and Management from Ondo State Polytechnic, Owo. I later obtained a B.Sc. (Ed.) from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

I am also a Certified Protection Officer under the International Foundation for Protection Officers, USA and Canada Programme.

In addition, I obtained a Diploma in Security Management from Transworld Security, Nigeria. I further pursued my theological education, obtaining a Master’s Degree in Theology and a PhD in Theology.

My wife, Mrs Owolabi B. B. (née Agbedu), was born into the family of the late Pastor and Mrs J. B. Agbedu from Ekiti State, precisely Usi.

How long have you been married?

We have been married for 19 years.

How did you meet your wife?

We met in the lecture room at the university when we were both in 300 Level.

When you first met, did you ever imagine that the relationship would eventually lead to marriage?

Not at the beginning. We initially started as just acquaintances, and as time went on, our relationship developed into something deeper that eventually led to marriage.

How did your wife react when you proposed to her?

She was simply delighted.

How did your wife’s parents react when you informed them about your intention to marry her?

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Her father had already passed away at the time, but her mother received the proposal positively and gave her consent.

How many children do you have?

We are blessed with three children: two girls and one boy.

Over the years, what would you describe as some of the best and most memorable moments you have shared as a couple?

It was when we moved into our own house. It was a significant milestone for us as a couple and a testimony of God’s faithfulness in our marriage and family.

What would you say has been the key to sustaining your marriage over the years?

For us, it has been important to pray genuine prayers and seek the will of God concerning our marriage and every major decision we make.

What advice would you give to young couples who aspire to build a long-lasting, successful marriage like yours?

A marriage that is not built on the solid foundation of God Almighty is more likely to crumble when faced with challenges.

 My advice to young couples is to put God at the centre of their marriage, communicate openly, respect one another, forgive easily, and remain committed to their vows, especially during difficult times. (Proverbs 3:5-6; 16:3)

What are your thoughts on the increasing rate of marriage breakups in Nigeria, and what recommendations would you give to couples and intending couples?

We strongly recommend that every couple who desires to enjoy a successful and lasting marriage should put God first in everything they do. Couples should learn to operate as one (Gen. 2:24), rather than as two separate individuals.

They should cultivate patience, humility, honesty, love, understanding, perseverance, and mutual respect. Above all, couples should remain godly in their conduct and decisions, seek God’s guidance, and be willing to make sacrifices for one another.

Marriage requires commitment from both partners, and when couples allow God to guide their home, they are better positioned to overcome challenges and build a strong and enduring marriage.